Country Show 2014

Our two day Country Show on the weekend of the 24th and 25th May was a good example of how the changeable British weather can make such a difference to an outdoor event. Early Saturday morning saw grey skies and a steady rain which affected the number of exhibitors and prompted a few last minute change of plans.

Traction engine with trailer and living vanStationary engine driving a water pump

Lunchtime saw the clouds clear and the sun shining through but the wet conditions had already affected the show attendance. This was a pity as we had some outstanding dance displays from the Viv O’Gara School of Irish Dance and ‘Ashnah’, a fusion of Eastern, African and Spanish Flamenco dancing.

Mr. Muddles Magical Mayhem

Mr. Muddles Magical Mayhem provided some excellent entertainment for young and old alike and several children were seen clutching their balloon animals tightly (but not too tight!). Also appearing in the show marquee were folk based ‘The Potting Shed Band’.

Bird of Prey from Hawk WalkOwl from Wheatley Birds of PreyVintage carsMore cars and yes, that is a road legal boat!

The Saturday evening lifted everyone’s spirits with a few games of bingo and we were delighted when both the Irish dancers and Ashnah were able to give another fantastic display on the stage. This was something new for this year’s show and was a real hit. Live music was provided by ‘Ridgeway’, a local duo with a great sound.

An advantage to having a two day show is that you get another chance and the forecast for a better Sunday was spot on. The sun was out early and it’s warmth dried the ground so well that it was hard to believe that 24 hours can be so different. With many more exhibitors, dancing, demonstrations and arena displays it was a great day.

Up close and personal with an otterMiniature steam traction engineH-Bar-C Wild West campKennesaw Confederates

Mark Cottrell with his Cob Pony ‘Hattie’Mark winning the award for Best Exhibit, presented by Flo Galliford

Also during the two days were the fun dog show, craft stalls & demonstrations and model displays in The Barn where visitors could take a welcome break for refreshments.

Martin Claridge’s 20 Key OrganJulia Biddle from Waitrose with Show Committee member Brian Hayter at the prize draw. Waitrose kindly donated a wonderful gift basket as First Prize.

The Show Committee are very grateful to Waitrose, Warmington Estate Agents. Fugro and Arthur Marsh Insurance for their sponsorship of the show and to our band of volunteers for giving up their time to help make our 2014 Country Show so enjoyable.